The Thappu is a traditional percussion instrument widely used in the southern part of india . Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. It is a type of drum used in folk music, festivals, rituals, and other cultural events. The Thappu is known for its powerful and resonant sound, often creating a lively and energetic atmosphere. The circular frame of the Thappu is traditionally made from wood, such as neem or jackfruit, which is both durable and lightweight. In some cases, metal frames are used for added sturdiness. The drumhead is made from animal hide, usually goat or buffalo skin. The skin is cleaned, dried, and stretched tightly over the frame using strings or clamps.Thappu come in different sizes, typically ranging from 12 inches to 24 inches in diameter, depending on the type of performance.It is typically played with bare hands, though sticks may also be used in some rare cases. The musician strikes the drumhead with varied intensity to produce different rhythms. The Thappu has ancient roots, being integral to South Indian folk traditions for centuries.It was originally used as a communication tool to gather people during community events or warn about emergencies. Over time, it became a key instrument in folk music, temple rituals, and even political gatherings.
Thapps in Muslim tradition:
In Muslim traditions, particularly in South India, the Thapps / daffs plays a significant role in cultural and religious practices. The Daff originates from Middle Eastern and Persian traditions. It later became popular in India through Sufi and folk music traditions.The Daff is lighter, has jingles, and is associated with melodic folk and Sufi traditions. But here in tamilnadu thapps plays a vital role and in some places daffs have been used. It is associated with Sufi music, folk songs, and Islamic rituals. Often used in celebrations like QUrs and Qawwali or traditional Tamil Muslim hymns, fostering a spiritual and celebratory atmosphere. During celebrations of the Prophet Muhammad's birth (Milad-un-Nabi), the Thappu is used to create rhythmic beats in processions and gatherings. In Muslim weddings, the Thappu or daffs is played to mark joyous moments, such as the groom's procession or the bride's departure. Its rhythmic beats signify celebration and unity. The Thappu is an integral part of processions during festivals and commemorative events in Muslim communities, where it sets the tempo for participants walking together in harmony. In kerala Muslim communities the usage of dhaffs exist in this college i had attached the picture of keraltes playing thapps. In tamil Nadu we could see this tradition in coastal regions Muslims especially, from nagapattiam, ramanathanpurum, thoothukudi region.
Puthu Mandapam is a historic and architectural marvel located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, near the famous Meenakshi Amman Temple. It is a significant landmark with cultural, historical, and architectural importance. It was constructed during the reign of Thirumalai Nayak (1623–1659), one of the most prominent rulers of the madurai Nayak dynasty. Yali sculptures (mythical lion-like creatures) on the pillars symbolize strength and protection. It features 124 intricately carved stone pillars, each depicting daily routine, Royal procession, Hindu gods, mythological figures, and scenes from epics like the thiruvilaiyadal puranam, Ramayana and Mahabharata. Here the processional Deites you come and stay in this mandabam for yearly twice for (Dec -Jan )in margazhi thiruvathiri and ( May -Jun ) vasanthorchavam. Here in college I had added pictures of drum players sculptures from (thappu ) Puthu mandabam. In this college we could see the usage of this drum still exist in the Kurumba tribe, The Kurumba people use the Thappu in worship practices, particularly during pujas dedicated to their gods.It is believed that the rhythmic beats of the Thappu help establish a spiritual connection and invite divine blessings. The use of the Thappu in rituals and celebrations helps preserve their age-old customs and heritage.With modernization, traditional practices, including the use of the Thappu, face a decline as younger generations adapt to contemporary lifestyles. From this college we could understand this age old tradition still exists in Diffrent nanes and passed one to generation to generation.
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